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Tough times ahead could lead to transformation

Bookmark and Share This week, David Cameron warned of tough times ahead as the government plans to cut public sector pay, pensions and state benefits.

In business, as in politics, people are more likely to accept tough decisions if they understand the reasons behind them, the impact they’ll have, and the benefits they’ll bring.

Cameron doesn’t have to explain too much about the reasons for the planned cuts. Everyone in the UK has felt the impact of the recession in some way, and we’re looking at a £156bn budget deficit.

What people everywhere do want is for our leaders to be more accountable, and for their strategy and plans to be transparent. Cameron has promised “an unprecedented level of public and business consultation” and chancellor George Osborne is also considering creating a “star chamber” of officials and senior ministers to grill cabinet members on their proposed spending plans. These plans have the potential to help rebuild public trust in politicians. If the government takes a genuinely open and honest approach to what could be a painful process, people are more likely to be understanding. Cameron said, “As we deal with the debt crisis, we must take the whole country with us.” Pledging openness and accountability is a good first step.

Many business leaders have already faced the type of tough challenge that now confronts the government. They’ve had to make loyal employees redundant, cut budgets and close down failing companies. Leaders who explain the rationale behind tough decisions and engage employees in the process maintain trust and loyalty, and safeguard the reputation of their businesses. Those who don’t leave others feeling bitter and disappointed.  In my next post, I’ll look at how leaders can successfully engage others in the decision-making process.

Although it is difficult to see a brighter future during bleak times, tough decisions can lead to dramatic and positive change. “Anyone who thinks the spending review is just about saving money is missing the point,” said a Treasury official. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the way that government works.”

Whether Cameron and the government are successful in engaging the public with the process of cutting public sector budgets remains to be seen. If they are, genuine transformation is a real possibility. 

 

Posted: 9 Jun 2010 12:48 PM by Clare Roberts | with no comments
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